Abstract

This chapter presents an overview of global governance and the special place of the United Nations (UN) in international relations.’ The chapter begins by explaining what this relatively new term ‘global governance’ means. It is important that global governance not be confused with global government. It then outlines the UN and its structure before discussing the special role played by the UN in embodying and fostering global governance. One of the most viral roles the UN plays in this regard is in war prevention and peacebuilding. Founded on the desire to manage conflicts peacefully, the UN has, however, occasionally seen fit to authorise the use of force, not least in response to humanitarian emergencies. Nonetheless the UN’s commitment to maintaining international peace and security remains primary. The chapter concludes by reflecting on how the UN and global governance continue to rely on each other for existence.